SURF SCHOOL!

After the success of the Golf Etiquette Workshop last month, the GSBM is announcing the creation of a new class for the summer term called “Acing Your Surfing Interview.”

“Let’s face it, golf is for inlanders,” quipped Dr. Mallinger. “Being located in Malibu, Pepperdine has a unique advantage in preparing its students for the challenges of surfing interviews.”

“Anyone can do an elevator pitch. But to pitch your idea between the swells, or while you’re standing on an 8 foot wall, that takes real talent.”

“More and more interviews are being done out on the ocean” says Professor Seaman, who will be teaching the class. “You’d be surprised how many CEO’s, CFO’s and other power surfers are out there hunting for talent along with the perfect wave.”

“High tide at Surfrider is rapidly becoming the next power lunch.”

“There’s one legendary group of execs that surfs Zuma every week. When you see the Bentleys with roof racks in the parking lot, you know they’re riding. They call themselves ‘The Chairmen of the Board’ and they’re always hiring.”

“Professor Nooner hangs with them all the time.”

But before students jump in with both feet, Professor Seaman makes sure they know the fundamental rules of surf interview etiquette:

“First of all, be on time! If you come late, you’ll miss your wave. It’s OK to be a little early, but not so much you wind up sitting around for too long. You don’t want to get overexposed because then you’ll get burned.”

“Proper attire is vital, so make sure you dress right. Under no circumstances should you ever wear a Speedo! Surfer Professional all the way. Nothing too loud or flashy. Stick with black neoprene.”

“Go easy on the jewelry too. In addition to sending the wrong message, it also tends to attract sharks.”

“Remember: doing proper research is the key to a successful interview. You gotta know the climate, which way the tide is flowing, and be alert at all times for subtle undercurrents. One wrong move and you’ll totally wipe out.”

“Picking the right lines is vital too. Use the wrong ones and you’ll wind up on the rocks.”

“Always follow the interviewer’s lead. Don’t hog all the waves, and never cut him off. Make sure you have a couple of questions ready too. You can always ask about his footwork or which way he thinks the wind is blowing.”

“Once things get going, stay focused and ride that wave. But don’t show off too much. Remember, you’re not the only one competing for the wave, and no one invites an arrogant surfer to the clubhouse.”

“Most of all, remember that everyone will be watching you closely, so put your best foot forward, even if it makes you look a little Goofy.”

Enrollment is limited to a maximum of 18 students and the class is filling rapidly.

Upon completion of the class, students are automatically eligible to be enrolled in the advanced “Swimming With Sharks” class offered by the Law School and taught by Professor Gia Weisdorn.